Chicago Bears' starting running back D'Andre Swift and rookie wideout Rome Odunze got injured during Thursday's final pre-season practice, but medical reports confirmed that Swift only has a minor muscle cramp and is set to play in the Week 1 season opener.
Swift complained of severe abdominal discomfort after a carry from the 1-yard line and left the practice holding his midsection.

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A few hours later, ESPN insider Adam Schefter and medical sources clarified that it was just a temporary cramp and he’s on the path to a quick recovery. Earlier, receiver Odunze had also limped off the field with the trainers due to a right leg issue.
“Bears RB D'Andre Swift, who left Thursday's practice and was said to be in significant discomfort, was said to be experiencing 'a cramp', per sources.”
Bears RB D'Andre Swift, who left Thursday’s practice and was said to be in significant discomfort, was said to be experiencing “a cramp”, per sources. pic.twitter.com/SVfRslTmAf
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 4, 2026D'Andre Swift is expected to return before opener
According to the Bears coaching staff, both players will return to practice before the opener against the Carolina Panthers, Sep. 13 at Bank of America Stadium. The Bears have a mini-bye weekend, which will give players time to rest.
If Swift's injury turned out to be a major tear, sophomore RB Roschon Johnson would be given the starting responsibility, who himself had struggled with a foot injury back in August 2025. Bears’ backfield is already dealing with injury issues like backup Kyle Monangai's hyperextended right knee.
Before the injury scare, coach Johnson had stated to create the highest-scoring offense in NFL history. Johnson said:
"I want more than (the Super Bowl). I want to have the highest-scoring offense ever, which happens to be the 2013 Denver Broncos. I know how many points per game they scored (37.9), and I want to surpass them."
Analysts believe that Chicago's backup RBs have league-winning potential. According to the Fantasy Footballers host, if Swift gets injured, the backup could become a top performer thanks to this specific running system.
“Should Deandre Swift go down to injury? It will be mon guy and he will be up towards league winner status simply because of the offense, the team, the way they want to run the ball.”
Following the Week 1 game, in Week 2, the Bears will face the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 20 at Soldier Field.
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